New Playground For Village After Local Resident Raises over £65k

The playground, situated next to the Village Hall on Old Warwick Road will officially open on Saturday 29 June at 1000.

Children from Lapworth and the surrounding areas are set to enjoy a brand new playground, opening on Saturday 29 June.  It’s thanks to local resident Clare Shales who approached the Parish Council seeking support to improve the former out-of-date facilities.

Clare, a local vet and mother of two young boys, won support from the council and started fundraising in 2017.  Funding was secured from the National Lottery, Tesco and local charities such as the Dorridge Fun Run.  Grants were awarded by Warwick District Council, the Rural West Community Fund and Lapworth Parish Council.

After consulting with parents and children at Lapworth Primary School, it was decided a focus should be on new facilities that appeal to all ages rather than just toddlers.  The parents also wanted to see the style of the playground in keeping with nature and so a ‘Scandi’ style design was sought.

Leading playground company Kompan were chosen to transform the space situated next to the Village Hall on Old Warwick Road.  A birds nest swing, a ‘you and me’ swing for two and an agility trail will keep children entertained in the new playground.  A ‘supernova’ roundabout and ‘sky carousel’ for older children is a real feature.  Climbing frames and traditional swings for babies, toddlers and older children create a fun new space for youngsters to explore.

Together with the new football goal that was installed by Holdsworth Construction Ltd last year, the Lapworth Village Hall Playground now provides an exciting and safe environment for children of all ages to enjoy for years to come.

Councillor Clive Henderson, Chair of Lapworth Parish Council said, “When Clare attended the Parish Council meeting in 2017, we couldn’t have been more pleased to help and support her drive to improve the playground facilities.  After working together to secure different forms of funding, we’re delighted to see the new playground ready for local children to enjoy.  I’d encourage local residents with young children to use it and also to come forward with ideas like Clare did to continue to make Lapworth a truly wonderful village to live.  I’d like the thank the District Council, ACLLoyd, Clare Shales and the Lapworth Charity for their support and initiative to deliver the new playground for young people in the Parish.”

Clare Shales said, “When we moved to Lapworth in 2010, we loved the lovely walks along the canal but felt the playground could be improved to keep our boys entertained.  Having always fundraised, I wanted to get involved in the local community to make a difference so approached the council with the idea.  It’s been a real pleasure helping to bring this project to life.  I’d like to thank all of the supporters including the National Lottery Fund, Tesco and Kompan. I’m so excited to see young people enjoying it and for my boys to burn off some energy on the fantastic agility trail and sky carousel.”

The playground, situated next to the Village Hall on Old Warwick Road will officially open on Saturday 29 June at 1000.  A raffle raising funds for the primary school, a showcase of local sporting activities and refreshments will be available on the day.